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Perineal Hernia in Dogs

When the muscles in the pelvic diaphragm of an animal fail to provide necessary support, a hernia can develop causing a great amount of pain and discomfort. A hernia of the perineal area is more common in dogs than in cats, and in males rather than in females. Treatment often involves surgery and then prescription drugs to ease the animal's pain.

Symptoms and Types

Physical symptoms can include swelling of the perineal area, protrusion from the pelvis or surrounding areas, and the inability to control the bowels.

Causes

While a hernia of the pelvic diaphragm can develop in any breed of animal, they are much more common in the following breeds:

A hernia of the perineal region is more common in older animals than in younger as the region of the animal's body becomes weaker over time. It is not completely understood as to why this particular region of an animal's body becomes weaker, but there is some thought that hormones may be a factor. Another underlying cause for this type of hernia is prostatic disease or cancer. Other possible causes can include colorectal disease and atrophy of the pelvis.

Diagnosis

A rectal examination of the animal can identify several possible causes of the diaphragm hernia, including tissue disease in the anal area, inflammation of the anal area, and inflammation of the urinary tract. X-rays and ultrasounds are also often used to view the damaged area. This ensures that there are not any more serious underlying causes of the problem, and allows the veterinarian to view the internal area surrounding the hernia.